Surprise in September 1 2008 Issue of Time Magazine

When I opened up the September 1, 2008 issue of Time Magazine, I was duly surprised to find three local residents looking back at me.

There they were, real as life: Betty and Eddie Barrett, Co-chairs of the Tocqueville Society of the United Way of the River Cities and Larry LaFon, owner of the Advantage Toyota dealership in Barboursville. Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. was announcing that LaFon has received the Toyota President's Award for the 3rd consecutive year.

Our community is well aware of the long years of community service and leadership of Betty and Eddie Barrett. Our community is hearing for the first time that Larry LaFon has been an anonymous and on-going benefactor to several of Huntington's social service organizations, including United Way of the River Cities, based in Huntington.

The Toyota announcement states, "This year, however, a supporter of that agency, Eddie Barrett, convinced LaFon to go public with his support, believing it would help the fund-raising campaign if potential donors knew that a community leader like LaFon was a major contributor. The plan worked, with several new donors coming on board."

Barrett explained, "I knew Larry would be seen as a role model for others. Now, we've been able to recruit additional people who found out about his support. He sets an example for big giving, and by deciding to no longer be anonymous, he has helped to change some people's minds."

LaFon is a member of the United Way Tocqueville Society. To qualify, members give a minimum of $10,000; LaFon donates twice that amount every year. He also serves on the agency's Board of Directors.

The announcement quoted LaFon: "I've never been interested in any acknowledgement." I am interested in helping the underprivileged in the community from every angle. That's why I've been donating to the United Way for years."

A tip of our hat to three community workhorses - Larry LaFon, Eddie Barrett and Betty Barrett.